This bill proposes several updates to the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, specifically amending sections related to the process of eviction and the handling of disputes between landlords and tenants. Key changes include the introduction of a mandatory settlement conference for cases involving material breaches of lease agreements or failure to pay rent, which must occur within five days of the eviction notice being served. The bill stipulates that both parties must present relevant documentation at this conference, and outlines the consequences for non-attendance, such as case dismissal for landlords or default judgment against tenants. Additionally, the court is required to track and report data on these settlement conferences.

The bill also modifies existing procedures regarding the issuance of summons and the reinstatement of rental agreements. It clarifies that summons for certain actions must be issued not later than the next judicial day and specifies the timeline for tenant notification. Furthermore, it establishes that a rental agreement can be reinstated if the tenant pays all past due rent and associated fees before a special detainer action is filed, with specific conditions outlined for reinstatement after such actions. Overall, these amendments aim to streamline the eviction process and enhance communication and resolution between landlords and tenants.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 12-1175, 33-1368, 33-1377, 33-1341, 13-1102, 13-1103, 13-1104, 13-1105, 13-3211, 13-105, 13-2308, 13-3451, 13-1202, 13-1203, 12-991, 12-1181, 33-1370